The Water Cycle

Front

What is the water cycle?

Back

The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth's surface to the atmosphere and back, involving processes like evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Front

What is evaporation?

Back

Evaporation is the process by which liquid water is transformed into water vapor, usually due to heat from the sun.

Front

What is condensation?

Back

Condensation is the process by which water vapor cools and changes back into liquid water, forming clouds or dew.

Front

What is precipitation?

Back

Precipitation is any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.

Front

What is transpiration?

Back

Transpiration is the process by which water is absorbed by plants and then released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

Front

How does the sun influence the water cycle?

Back

The sun provides the energy needed for evaporation, turning liquid water into water vapor.

Front

What happens to water vapor when it cools?

Back

When water vapor cools, it condenses into liquid water, forming clouds or dew.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is the flow of water, from rain or melting snow, that moves over the ground and returns to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Front

How does temperature affect evaporation?

Back

Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation, as more water molecules gain enough energy to become vapor.

Front

What is the role of clouds in the water cycle?

Back

Clouds are formed from condensed water vapor and play a crucial role in transporting water in the atmosphere and returning it to the surface as precipitation.